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Best Vibration Platform Machines

Whole Body Vibration (WBV) therapy is an alternative exercise regimen that has become increasingly popular in Asia, Europe, and the United States. Proponents of WBV therapy claim a number of significant health and wellness benefits, from improved circulation and muscle toning to increased stamina and relaxation. Commercial gyms and rehabilitation centers often invest thousands of dollars in professional-grade vibration platform machines that provide the necessary pivotal or lineal energy to users. These vibration platforms (sometimes called power plates) may be too expensive for home use, but more consumer-friendly models do exist. We evaluated numerous vibration platform machines in order to bring you our top five contenders:

Products we Considered

GForce

Professional Dual Motor

Axis-Plate

Vibration Pro

Confidence Fitness

Slim Full Body

Tripact Inc

Whole Body, Butterfly Shape

GADGET FIT

Power Vibration

Considerations

Versatility

Some WBV exercise routines require a side-to-side or pivotal motion, much like a playground see-saw. Others require an up-and-down or lineal motion, as if the user were doing push-ups or jumping rope. In addition, some vibration platform machines provide back-and-forth or lateral motion to enhance the pivotal and/or lineal effects. We give additional praise to models featuring dual-motor technology. This technology allows users to choose between pivotal, lineal, or a combination of both. If a particular contender only allows for one type of vibratory pattern, consumers are encouraged to consider their particular health or exercise needs and choose accordingly.

Ease of Use

Stability is a very important consideration when evaluating vibration platform machines. The user needs to feel stable while holding various positions during exercises. He/she should be able to read the machine's displays and make adjustments during exercise. And, of course, the unit itself must perform safely, especially at maximum settings. In this section of our ratings, we consider elements like easy mounting and dismounting, size of the vibratory platform, and any additional safety measures that are provided.

Additional Features

WBV therapy stresses short, intense sessions that rarely last more than a minute or two. Because vibration platform machines can be used for both health and exercise purposes, we look for additional features such as handheld exercise bands and monitoring devices. Some vibration platform machines include suggestions for exercise programs or special regimens for health problems. We give additional points to machines that allow the user to customize his or her workout routine.

Price

Commercial vibration platform machines can easily cost thousands of dollars, and many of them only provide one form of vibratory energy -- lineal or pivotal. The consumer-friendly models on our shortlist deliver roughly the same type of performance at a fraction of the price. However, there are some trade-offs to consider. For instance, some lower-priced contenders use weaker motors to deliver vibratory energy. Higher-end machines may have more powerful motors, but they can also be more expensive to operate. Models with dual motors typically offer more therapeutic or exercise options to consumers.

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Considerations

Versatility

GForce Professional Dual Motor Whole Body Vibration Machine

According to many satisfied customers, the GForce Power Vibe packs nearly as much punch as professional gym models. It features dual motors, one for lineal vibration and another for pivotal vibration. Users can also select a setting that will perform both motions at the same time. Unlike some other vibration platform machines, however, the lineal motion is back-and-forth, not up-and-down. The therapeutic benefits are still the same, though. This machine features 60 separate speed settings, all of which are controlled by a single dial and an easy-to-read LCD display. The GForce Power Vibe is a heavy-duty machine, and it is not designed for portability. We give the product additional points for its ability to handle higher vibration speeds without increasing the noise level.

Crazy Fit Vibration Pro Whole Body Exercise Platform Machine

The Crazy Fit Vibration Pro features a powerful 1,000 watt motor, but only delivers pivotal (side-to-side) vibration during use. Some users may find this limiting, but others will find it ideal for their specific needs. The Crazy Fit Vibration Pro is more portable than other models, and it includes protective caps that prevent its legs from marring floors. It also sports wheels for easy transportation and set-up. An easy-to-read display shows how much time has elapsed per session; sensors can also calculate the user's BMI. There are 50 speed settings available, along with three pre-programmed exercise routines.

Confidence Fitness Slim Full Body Vibration Platform

The Confidence Fitness Slim provides exceptional support as well as portability, which can sometimes be a trade-off with other models. The 1.5-hp motor provides substantial pivotal vibration to the plate during use, and the user can choose from 50 speed settings. These settings are displayed along with other vital information such as pulse rate, elapsed time, and BMI (body mass index). One feature we find particularly useful is the automatic shut-off after ten minutes of operation. This protects the motor from burning out and also discourages users from overworking their muscles or getting too dehydrated. The Confidence Fitness Slim does not have lineal vibration capability, which may prevent users from performing certain exercises. However, many satisfied owners tell us they have benefited significantly from pivotal vibration exercises alone.

Whole Body Vibration Machine Butterfly Shape

The Whole Body Vibration Machine is a portable model that would be ideal for casual use but not for intense WBV workouts. (The 200-watt motor does produce a substantial level of pivotal vibration, however.) One owner describes this compact model as a "foot massager for your entire body," and we tend to agree with that assessment. There are no support bars, so user stability is always going to be an issue. We do appreciate the fact that the model offers three pre-programmed settings with varied workouts for different personal goals. Some settings are said to promote lymph system drainage; others target stress or cellulite. A ten-minute session on the Whole Body Vibration Machine, especially at its higher settings, can feel like an hour or more on a treadmill. This unit may look small compared to other vibration platform machines, but it is not a toy. (We urge consumers to check with a medical professional before starting WBV!) The portability of this model is ideal for use at an office or hotel room.

Gadget Fit Power Vibration Plate

The Gadget Fit employs a 600-watt motor to deliver oscillating (pivotal) vibrations to the plate, but it cannot provide lineal vibrations for certain WBV exercises. This could be a drawback for some customers, but many like the fact that this is a straightforward, entry-level machine with few distractions. There are three pre-programmed exercise routines available; the primary goal of these programs is to introduce muscle confusion into the workout. The handrails have metallic leads that measure the user's pulse rate and feed that information to a centralized display. Elapsed time and vibration speeds are also on the display. The unit has 50 speed settings, although experienced WBV devotees may not notice much of a change until Level 20 or so. The handrails can also be removed to provide more room for the user during advanced exercises. Some owners describe the Gadget Fit's performance as "slower" than others.

The GForce Power Vibe features 60 separate speed settings, all of which are controlled by a single dial and an easy-to-read LCD display.

Considerations

Ease of Use

GForce Professional Dual Motor Whole Body Vibration Machine

The GForce Power Vibe features a 27.25 x 20-inch vibration platform. These generous dimensions should provide users of all sizes a sense of security during use. The support handles are curved to allow various handholds during exercise routines. Some WBV regimens require users to assume different positions for each one-minute set, from standing to deep squats to push-ups. (Vibration therapy may be viewed by many as a passive form of exercise, but there is indeed a great deal of muscle engagement!) Owners agree that the GForce Power Vibe designers truly understand the requirements of a gym-quality machine.

The Crazy Fit Vibration Pro has a 21 x 14.5-inch base plate -- the norm for an at-home vibration platform machine. The entire platform has a non-slip surface, allowing users to wear standard athletic shoes. The curved design of the arms allows the user to assume many different positions during exercise sessions. Some owners feel the supporting arms are a tight fit at times, but most say that the padding is especially comfortable. However, a weight limit of 265 pounds could be a serious drawback for heavier consumers who want to explore WBV for weight loss. Assembly can be difficult, according to some people, but the end result offers more portability than other vibration platform machines. Overall, the Crazy Fit Vibration Pro delivers a high-quality pivotal workout that is comparable to a gym version.

Confidence Fitness Slim Full Body Vibration Platform

The Confidence Fitness Slim's overall base dimensions are a generous 27 x 27 inches, but the vibration plate itself is raised and a little smaller. Some exercisers may need to use the support arms while mounting or dismounting; these arms also provide some much-needed stability during intense workouts. We give props to this model for its centrally located, easy-to-read display unit. The motor speed gradations are subtle but noticeable, especially in the higher settings. The unit has an on/off switch located near the power cord, but many owners tell us they benefit more from the automatic ten-minute shutoff. (Most WBV exercises are intended to last only a minute or so. Ten minutes of exercise on a vibration platform machine is said to be the equivalent of 60 minutes on a treadmill or elliptical machine.)

Whole Body Vibration Machine Butterfly Shape

Since the Whole Body Vibration Machine's total weight is only 45 pounds, it is definitely easy to set up in a room and then store under a bed or in a closet. Even though the unit does not have traditional hand grips or a centralized display unit, it does have a remote control feature. Owners find it easy to step onto the vibration plate for stabilization before activating the motor remotely. The pivotal vibrations can be intense at higher settings, but the motion itself is not destabilizing for the user. In other words, the vibration plate will not try to "buck" the user off, even at maximum power. However, potential buyers with mobility or balance issues may want to do some further research and testing before investing in a portable vibration unit without stabilizers. The Whole Body's stated weight limit is 250 pounds, which may also be a consideration for those who want to use WBV therapy for weight loss. The Whole Body Vibration Machine is ideal for those who benefit from regular ten-minute routines two or three times a week. It won't reproduce the intensity of expensive gym vibration plates, but it will definitely engage muscles and joints for a stimulating workout.

Gadget Fit Power Vibration Plate

At 68 pounds, the Gadget Fit is not exactly portable, but it is exceptionally sturdy. The vibration platform is smaller in area than the ones found on more expensive units, which can make mounting, stabilizing, and dismounting a bit of a challenge. The narrowness of the plate is a known issue, but it can be corrected by removing the handrails or modifying your stance during a workout. At higher speeds, the oscillation of this machine can be so intense that the teeth may chatter. (In general, users should avoid maximum settings and extended sessions.) If a user has tried WBV therapy elsewhere and wants to inexpensively reproduce those results at home, the Gadget Fit is a reasonable entry-level contender. However, more experienced vibration therapy enthusiasts may want to seek a model with additional features and more motor power.

The Confidence Fitness Slim's useful automatic shut-off feature prevents the motor from burning out and discourages users from overworking their muscles and getting dehydrated.

Expert Consultant

Dr. Tamer

Medical Doctor

Dr. Tamer emphasizes prevention as the most effective way to minimize health issues (cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, etc.) and maximize long-term health. Warm and knowledgeable, he is committed to forming comfortable bonds with his patients by which they can work together to set priorities and manage ongoing health concerns. Tamer earned his MD from the University of Connecticut and completed his internal medicine residency at Yale University.

Considerations

Additional Features

GForce Professional Dual Motor Whole Body Vibration Machine

One additional feature we believe will benefit customers tremendously is the GForce Power Vibe's easy-to-follow set-up DVD. The GForce Power Vibe can be a challenge to assemble, but the video instructions make the process much easier. The unit also arrives with special resistance bands that attach to the hand grips. We like the manual and pre-programmed exercise routine options, too. Users can select automatic programs that provide both pivotal and lineal vibrations at various speeds and durations. This creates a form of muscle confusion that WBV proponents claim is very beneficial to users.

Crazy Fit Vibration Pro Whole Body Exercise Platform Machine

Portability and floor protection are perhaps the Crazy Fit Vibration Pro's best features. Unlike some other contenders (like the GForce Vibe Plate), the Crazy Fit does not arrive with resistance bands. However, this type of exercise enhancer can be found elsewhere and modified to fit the unit's support arms. The manufacturer includes a complete user's guide that walks customers through everything from product assembly to advanced WBV exercises. At-home exercisers who seek the benefits of pivotal vibration action tend to be quite satisfied with this model.

Confidence Fitness Slim Full Body Vibration Platform

The Confidence Fitness Slim includes a few additional features that should enhance the user's WBV experience, including yoga resistance straps. The straps encourage participants to maintain stretch positions as the machine vibrates. We wouldn't call them true resistance bands, but they do help users achieve better form while exercising. Another useful feature is a complete user's manual that provides detailed instructions on various exercise routines and some background on the benefits of WBV therapy in general. The Confidence Fitness Slim's 330-pound weight capacity in another fantastic feature.

Whole Body Vibration Machine Butterfly Shape

Because it is a compact unit, the Whole Body Vibration Machine does not arrive with many additional features. It does have three preset programs that users can select for different types of WBV workouts. Some people claim that the vibration plate moves in both lineal and vertical directions, but the single motor is actually designed to deliver pivotal vibration only. The Whole Body Vibration Machine's best additional feature is, by far, its remote control system. Users can remove the remote control from the unit's base and allow themselves to become completely stabilized before switching on the motor. The lack of handrails may be seen as a negative by some, but this absence allows owners to incorporate the unit into exercises such as calisthenics and step aerobics. During standard exercises, the vibrations provided by this machine challenge the muscles and circulation system.

Gadget Fit Power Vibration Plate

The Gadget Fit Power Vibration Plate includes all of the standard features that most top contenders include: pulse monitoring, running time clock, and vibration speed. The exerciser can check his or her pulse by placing a hand on a handrail's metallic lead and waiting for the results to appear on the centralized display. Two additional features we believe users will appreciate, even if they don't see them in action, are the Gadget Fit's anti-jamming and anti-static mechanisms. Vibration plates have a tendency to generate a static electricity charge, especially when positioned over carpeting. The anti-static mechanism draws that energy away from the user, allowing it to dissipate safely. Jamming can also be a problem for any appliance or machine with oscillating parts. The Gadget Fit's anti-jamming protection prevents the motor from burning out and protects the user from sudden breakdowns.

GForce Power Vibe owners can select automatic programs that provide both pivotal and lineal vibrations. This creates a form of muscle confusion that is very beneficial to users.

Considerations

Price

GForce Professional Dual Motor Whole Body Vibration Machine

At $1999, the GForce Power Vibe vibration platform is among the more expensive of our top contenders. However, potential customers should keep in mind that this model is designed to provide commercial-grade service at a retail price. Dual-motor units like the GForce Power Vibe deliver options that other single-motor models simply can't. We recommend the high-end GForce Power Vibe to consumers who have already experienced the therapeutic benefits of WBV elsewhere and want to replicate those experiences at home. It is not an entry- level machine, and consumers should consult a health professional before making this kind of investment.

Crazy Fit Vibration Pro Whole Body Exercise Platform Machine

The Crazy Fit Vibration Pro is surprisingly affordable for its size and capacity. This is a heavy-duty vibration platform machine at an entry-level price. Our only major concern is that it contains just one motor -- although it does deliver 1,000 watts of power to a very substantial vibration plate. The Crazy Fit Vibration Pro is ideal for novice users who have some experience with WBV therapy at a gym or have been urged to try vibratory platform therapy by a medical professional. Potential buyers should note that the unit's pivotal vibrations may limit the kinds of exercises users can perform.

Confidence Fitness Slim Full Body Vibration Platform

The Confidence Fitness Slim's retail price of $249 makes it extremely competitive with similar at-home vibration platform machines such as the Crazy Fit Vibration Pro and the Gadget Fit. Other vibration platform machines may feature more powerful motors, but they also have lower weight limits than the Confidence Fitness Slim. This is an important consideration, as many customers seek out WBV machines for muscle toning and weight loss. We find that the versatility of the Confidence Fitness Slim makes it an attractive and affordable alternative to higher-end, dual-motor models.

Whole Body Vibration Machine Butterfly Shape

At $217, the Whole Body Vibration Machine is on par with other entry-level vibrating platforms, but it is hampered by a lack of additional features. Although supportive handrails are not required for safe operation, users may perceive the lack of them as problematic. Its DC motor delivers substantial power, especially for its size, and the entire base is easily transportable from home to office or hotel room. Other vibration machines do not store easily and can be extremely heavy, but the Whole Body unit is not limited to one corner of one room every time someone wants to use it. If portability is a serious consideration for a potential WBV practitioner, this top contender could be the perfect fit.

Gadget Fit Power Vibration Plate

The Gadget Fit's incredibly low retail price of $199 makes it a serious contender for budget-minded users. The unit has almost all of the features of higher-end vibration platform machines, including pre-programmed workouts, pulse monitoring, speed and time displays, and a 600-watt oscillating motor. It is sturdy enough to accommodate users up to the recommended 265-pound weight limit. While the reduced size of the vibration platform may be an issue for some, the Gadget Fit Power Vibration machine is a decent entry-level contender, especially when you consider its price and ease of assembly.

The Confidence Fitness Slim's versatility makes it an attractive and affordable alternative to high-end, dual-motor models.

Best of the Best

Some people fall in love with a new piece of commercial gym equipment, but when they invest in a similar at-home model, they become disillusioned by its inferior quality. This is definitely not the case for consumers who buy the GForce Power Vibe. This top-notch vibration platform delivers professional-grade quality for a reasonable retail price, and it is our Best of the Best contender.

The GForce Power Vibe provides therapeutic and exercise benefits that are comparable to the professional-grade WBV machines found in gyms and physical therapy clinics. The dual-motor design allows for both pivotal and lineal motion, along with some back-and-forth y-axis motion. This is important because some WBV exercises require side-to-side alternating vibrations while others require up-and-down or back-and-forth lineal vibrations. The GForce Power Vibe offers users an opportunity to choose between pivotal and lineal vibrations or combine them with variable speed controls.

The GForce Power Vibe's 1,000 and 500-watt motors have 60 speed settings. This diverse range allows owners to find the ideal intensity for their personal needs. WBV therapy isn't just about raw speed or vibrating rates; it is also about specific frequencies that help improve circulation, drain lymph systems, and engage muscle groups. While some may view vibration platform therapy as a passive form of exercise, the truth is that users engage almost all of their major muscle groups and other systems during intense, one-minute sessions. Ten minutes on a vibration plate machine is believed to be the equivalent of an hour on a treadmill or elliptical trainer!

The GForce Power Vibe includes rubber resistance bands that encourage users to assume a stable position and hold it during a session. Handrails provide enough security for users to perform deep squats or other stretches while on the table. This machine's retail price may be a little intimidating at first, but potential buyers should note that it is still a fraction of the price of the commercial-grade machines it replicates. Believers in the WBV health movement should consider investing in the best machine for the job. That machine is the GForce Power Vibe!

The GForce Power Vibe provides therapeutic and exercise benefits that are comparable to the professional-grade WBV machines found in gyms and physical therapy clinics.

Best Bang for your Buck

While commercial vibration plate machines can cost thousands of dollars, there is an affordable contender that delivers on power and additional features. It's the Confidence Fitness Slim Vibration Platform, and it's the Best Bang for Your Buck on our shortlist.

The Confidence Fitness Slim does not offer the dual-motor capabilities of the GForce Power Vibe, but its 1.5-hp motor delivers significant pivotal (side-to-side) vibrations to a solid vibration plate in the base. Pivotal vibrations mimic the alternative movements of running or climbing, so the same muscle and nerve groups are engaged. The Confidence Fitness Slim also offers 50 speed settings and three pre-programmed workouts.

The original package also includes yoga resistance bands. These bands encourage the exerciser to assume and hold challenging positions during intense workouts. The solid handrails allow users to assume different body angles, including deep squats and knee bends. An easy-to-read, centralized display shows elapsed time, vibration speed, pulse rate, and BMI measurements. The company also includes a detailed user's manual that demonstrates various WBV exercise regimens.

The Confidence Fitness Slim's 330-pound weight capacity makes it ideal for "passive exercise" applications and heavier people who are trying to lose weight. Some owners report feeling energized and more focused after only spending a few minutes on a vibration platform machine. The Confidence Fitness Slim Vibration Platform is the perfect entry-level machine for those who want to try WBV at home without spending a fortune. It's a durable machine that will last for years, and it provides enough incentive for users to make ten-minute body vibration routines a permanent habit!